Introduction
Graduation day. You’ve crossed the finish line of years of hard work, sleepless nights, and constant pressure. You should feel on top of the world, but instead, there’s this heavy weight in your chest. What’s next?
For many young people, that moment is filled with more questions than answers. “How will life turn out?” “Will my dreams come true like I imagined?” “What challenges will I face, and will I have the strength to overcome them?” These are questions that race through your mind the moment you step off that campus ground and into the uncertainty of life after school.
I remember feeling the same way, just like I imagine many of you do. As I left the campus of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) with my B.Tech degree, I was filled with the excitement of the unknown but also plagued by fear and doubt. My heart wouldn’t stop worrying, but in those moments of panic, I found comfort in the promise that I was not alone, that I carried the spirit of excellence, and that somehow, I would prevail.
The Struggle After NYSC: A Life of Waiting and Watching
The hardest part came after the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). I thought that once I completed that phase, I would immediately be swept into a world full of opportunities. But the reality hit hard — no job, no clear direction, just an overwhelming sense of being lost. I would watch others around me secure jobs, advance in their careers, and make their way in life, while I felt stuck. The days of waiting seemed endless, and I kept asking myself, “What am I doing wrong?”
The struggle of feeling left behind is something many young people face after school. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the unemployment rate in Nigeria is estimated at 33.3% in 2020, with youth unemployment being a huge contributor. This statistic paints a picture of the harsh reality many graduates face when stepping into the workforce — there simply aren’t enough opportunities, and the waiting game becomes a test of resilience.
But through all the doubts and uncertainties, I kept forging ahead, trying whatever I could — content writing, applying for my master’s degree, volunteering wherever possible. Anything that could make me feel like I was progressing. Some days felt like small victories; other days, I found myself crying into my pillow, mentally drained, questioning my choices, wondering if I’d ever get out of this rut.
But as time passed, I began to realize something powerful: growth happens when you push through the pain. Looking back, I see now that I was learning more than I realized — I was building resilience. I was becoming stronger, more patient, and more determined.
The Struggles After My Master’s Degree: Decisions and Disappointments
After my master’s degree, things didn’t get any easier. I was still stuck in the uncertainty, trying to figure out what to do with my life. The pressure to have everything figured out weighed heavily on me. I constantly found myself at crossroads, faced with tough decisions, and feeling like I was disappointing everyone around me, especially those who had high expectations. But I chose to stay true to myself.
I chose to prioritize my own well-being — to care for myself first, because I knew deep down that I mattered just as much as everyone else. It’s a hard lesson to learn, especially when society tells you to put others first, to keep pushing no matter what. But I realized that in order to be strong for others, I had to be strong for myself first.
The Job: A New Challenge, New Growth
Eventually, I got a job. It seemed like the answer to all my problems, but it came with its own set of challenges. Mastering how to deal with a difficult boss was just one of them. With the pressure from work and the frustrations that came with it, I found myself constantly battling between doing my best and protecting my mental health. It was a constant juggling act, trying to figure out how to stay productive without burning out.
I wasn’t prepared for this. No one tells you that entering the workforce isn’t just about skills and qualifications; it’s about emotional intelligence, navigating office politics, and dealing with stress in ways you never imagined. But somehow, I got through it. In fact, I can say that I am still going through it, learning and evolving with every challenge that comes my way.
Looking Back: Lessons Learned and Growth Achieved
Looking back, I can see the growth I’ve experienced. I’ve learned patience — both with myself and with others. I’ve learned the value of work ethics and how to stay grounded in the midst of pressures and setbacks. Dealing with difficult people, learning to communicate effectively, and staying true to myself have been some of the most powerful lessons I’ve gained.
Most importantly, I’ve learned that trusting God every day has been the key to my perseverance. No matter how hard it got, I knew that I wasn’t alone. His promise kept me moving forward, even on the days I felt like giving up.
A Lesson in Hope: You Are Not Alone
If you’re reading this and feeling stuck or discouraged, I want to tell you this — you are not alone. There is nothing wrong with the struggle you’re going through. In fact, it’s part of your journey to greatness.
The challenges that come with life after school are real, but they are not the end of your story. They are just the beginning of something greater. You are stronger than you realize, and every challenge you face is shaping you into a more resilient, capable person.
Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s. Your story is unfolding in its own time, and there is beauty in every step you take, no matter how slow it may feel.
What You Can Do Now
If you’re in a similar position and struggling to find your footing, here are some things you can do to turn the tide:
- Give yourself grace. Understand that it’s okay to not have everything figured out.
- Take small steps. Every little action counts. Apply for jobs, volunteer, or learn new skills — keep moving forward.
- Surround yourself with support. Find people who lift you up, and stay connected to those who inspire you.
- Celebrate your progress. No victory is too small. Every step forward is worth celebrating.
- Trust the process. Know that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Stay patient and keep your faith.
Conclusion: The Best is Yet to Come
Your journey isn’t finished. Life after school may seem uncertain, but that uncertainty is the perfect ground for growth and transformation. You have the power to turn every setback into a comeback. With resilience, faith, and a willingness to embrace the journey, you will prevail.
At YTOP Global, we believe in you. We walk with young leaders like you every day, helping them rise beyond obstacles and build lives that inspire others. Your best days are still ahead — trust the process, stay the course, and know that you are becoming exactly who you’re meant to be.
The world is waiting for you to show up, and you’re more than ready.